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Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
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Chronic Worry - Generalized Anxiety Disorder

Prevention & Expectations

What can be done to prevent the condition?

To prevent GAD, people must manage the demands that cause the problems. Learning how to cope better with the things that trigger anxiety can help. A good support system can also be helpful. Setting realistic demands and expectations is also key.

Take these actions to reduce anxiety:

Try relaxation techniques, such as meditation, self-hypnosis, and breathing exercises.

Get 30 minutes of exercise per day.

Get at least 8 hours of sleep each night.

Adopt healthy eating habits such as drinking less caffeine and alcohol.

Avoid taking drugs known to cause anxiety.

Get counseling for specific problem areas, such as parenting skills and marital, family, career, or school issues.

Talk with a doctor about whether there might be benefits from systematically desensitizing specific fears. This therapy can help someone gradually overcome a fear.

Build support systems. Find people who can help with child care, housekeeping, and household tasks.

What are the long-term effects of the condition?

Anxiety is often linked to depression and can cause problems in a person's work and social life. Unlike many other anxiety disorders, the symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder seem to lessen somewhat with age.

What are the risks to others?

GAD may have a negative effect on the individual's relationships with friends and family.

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